The Djembe

Monday, January 13, 2014, 11:15am

By Jonathan Overby

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The Djembe is a cup-shaped wooden drum covered by a membrane or drumhead made of goat skin. The Djembe (or jembe) originates from West Africa, where it is used, not just for listening, but for dancing. Dances done to djembe drumming include celebratory communal events such as marriage, (a right of passage) coming into adulthood or joy in an abundant harvest. Djembe musical patterns are generally represented by three percussive tones, although more are possible. Some djembes are shaped like a drinking goblet. The instrument is played by striking the drumhead with open hands. By depressing the attached ropes which hold down the skin, varied tones can be produced when the drummer strikes the head of the instrument. Djembes vary in size and can be played standing or sitting. Today, the instrument can be regularly heard in diverse musical traditions all across the globe.

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